Power to require execution of works of improvement to slum areas or buildings therein

(1) Where the competent authority upon report from any of its officers or otherwise is satisfied that any slum area or part thereof, can be improved so as to conform to the interests of the health, safety or convenience of the residents of that area or of its neighbourhood, or that any building in any slum area can be improved so as to render it fit for human habitation consistent with safety, health or morals and if in its opinion such improvement can be carried out at a reasonable expense, it may serve upon the owner of such slum area or part thereof or such building a notice requiring him to execute the works of improvement specified therein within such time, not being less than thirty days, as may be specified in the notice: Provided that where the owner of the building is different from the owner of the land on which the building stands and the works of improvement required to be executed relate to provision of water taps or bathing places or construction of drains, open or covered or provision of water-borne latrines or removal of rubbish and such works are to be executed outside the building, the notice shall also be served upon the owner of the land: Provided further that before serving a notice under this sub-section, the competent authority shall consult the Chief Town Planner or any officer of the Town Planning Department of the Government authorised by the Government in this behalf. (2) In addition to serving a notice under sub-section (1) on the owner concerned, the competent authority shall serve a copy of the notice on any other person having an interest in the slum area or part thereof or building or the land on which the building stands, whether as lessee, mortgagee or otherwise. (3) In determining, for the purposes of this Act, whether an improvement can be carried out at a reasonable expense, regard shall be had to the estimated cost of the works of improvement and the estimated value that the slum area or part thereof or the building will have when the works are completed